The British EU presidency on Friday will attempt to get experts from all member states to agree to a set of practical rules for proposed timber trade partnerships with non-EU countries, known as Flegt.
A presidency compromise currently circulating suggests broadening the scope of the recommendation by adding an annex to cover wood products imported by individual third countries. The annex would be added to as new trade streams became apparent.

The European Commission proposed a single generic list of products imported from all partner countries. This has led governments to fear that trade in wood products not yet listed would be exempt from the agreement. However, the UK text also proposes scrapping the need for certificates of origin for products traded under the agreement, following concerns that they would not work.
A presidency official said the text was not perfect but could be the best possible compromise. He said governments were anxious to have Flegt in place soon so that trade negotiations can start in earnest